Neath RFC has lost one of its unsung heroes of yesteryear with the passing of former fitness coach Alun Roper after a long illness.

Very much a man of Neath, Alun grew up in James Street and was proud to be a vital component of the Neath ‘team management’ group installed by Brian Thomas at the start of the Neath Revolution in 1982.

Brian and his coaches Ron Waldron and Glen Ball placed a high emphasis on fitness as they set upon the task of making Neath RFC the best in the world – and it was to Alun Roper, an outstanding athlete in his own right, that they turned to knock the Neath squad into shape.

This he did to telling effect – although there were a few complaints in the beginning ! – as Neath began to set the rugby world on fire with their all action, dynamic, non-stop approach which left many a side reeling.

Alun’s input was key to Neath’s success and he took considerable pride from Neath’s achievements among them : Welsh champions 1986/1987; Welsh Champions, Merit Table and “Sunday Telegraph” winners in 1986/87; WRU Cup finalists in 1987/1988, world record holders with 1,917 points and 345 tries in 50 games in 1988/89 when Neath did the double as Welsh Champions and WRU Cup winners; Welsh Champions, Merit Table winners & WRU Cup winners in 1989/90 and inaugural champions of the WRU National League in 1990/91.

A policeman who qualified as a solicitor, Alun was a useful enough rugby player in his own right turning out for Neath Athletic and Skewen locally and at first-class level for Maesteg and South Wales Police either on the wing or at flanker.

But it was in the field of athletics that he prospered running for Swansea Harriers and Great Britain and in 1987 he was awarded a Merit Award made to those who had competed in major games.

Neath secretary Mike Price said, “The Neath Revolution under Brian Thomas was very much a re-assertion of prime Neath RFC values. Supreme fitness and a strong mental attitude were essential and Alun Roper’s influence cannot be under-estimated as he stressed these qualities to a host of ambitious, talented young players who were eager to buy into it.

“Slowly but surely he raised standards. His input contributed to Neath RFC’s lasting credit as those records will remain in the book for ever. Alun was very reliable and a great man to have alongside you. He put his legal training to good use as secretary of the Neath Former Players until his illness intervened and Neath RFC’s condolences are extended to his family and friends.

** A minute’s applause will be held in honour of Alun prior to the Neath-Narberth game on Saturday.